Generic name: bismuth subsalicylate [ biz-muth-sub-sa-liss-i-late ]
Drug class: Antidiarrheals
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Bismuth subsalicylate, Kaopectate, Bismarex, Bismatrol, Bismatrol maximum strength
What is Pepto-bismol diarrhea?
Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea relieves diarrhea, travelers' diarrhea, nausea, heartburn, indigestion, gas, or upset stomach.
Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
You should not use Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea if you have bleeding problems, a stomach ulcer, blood in your stools, or if you are allergic to aspirin or other salicylates.
Using this medicine in a child or teenager with flu symptoms or chickenpox can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye's syndrome.
How should I use Pepto-bismol diarrhea
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Shake the oral suspension (liquid). Measure a dose with the supplied measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea.
Taking more than the recommended dose will not make Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea more effective, and may cause serious side effects.
Call your doctor if you still have diarrhea after 2 days of using this medicine.
This medicine can affect the results of certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Do not freeze.
Before Taking
You should not use Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea if you are allergic to it, or if you have:
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black or bloody stools;
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stomach ulcer;
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bleeding problems; or
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if you are allergic to salicylates such as aspirin, Doan's Extra Strength, Salflex, Tricosal, and others.
Using this medicine in a child or teenager with flu symptoms or chickenpox can cause a serious or fatal condition called Reye's syndrome.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have or have ever had:
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mucus in your stools; or
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if you currently have a fever.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Do not give this medicine to a child younger than 12 years old without medical advice.
This medicine may contain phenylalanine and could be harmful if you have phenylketonuria (PKU).
What happens if I miss a dose?
Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea is used when needed. If you are on a dosing schedule, skip any missed dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Pepto-bismol diarrhea?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking other antacids, diarrhea medicine, or taking medicine that may contain a salicylate (such as aspirin, salsalate, magnesium salicylate, choline salicylate, diflunisal, Ecotrin, Tricosal, Trilisate, and others).
Pepto-bismol diarrhea side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives, difficult breathing, swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea may cause serious side effects. Stop using Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea and call your doctor at once if you have:
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changes in behavior with nausea and vomiting;
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hearing loss or ringing in your ears;
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diarrhea lasting longer than 2 days; or
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worsened stomach symptoms.
Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea may cause you to have a black or darkened tongue. This is a harmless side effect.
Common side effects include:
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constipation; or
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dark colored stools.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Pepto-bismol diarrhea Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Pepto-bismol diarrhea?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea with any other medicines, especially:
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arthritis medicine;
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gout medicine;
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insulin or oral diabetes medications; or
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a blood thinner--warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven.
This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Pepto-Bismol Diarrhea, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.